learntoquestion ltq discussions

Originally posted by bookshelf on December 04, 2024 07:45

Fascism manifests in a society in times of political unrest, and the people within the society look for stability and comfort. This was seen in the Weimar Republic, in which hyperinflation, postwar sadness, and political chaos consumed Germany. These combined created the perfect political climate for the rise of Adolph Hitler in the 1930s and 1940s.

In a fascist society, there must be severe aspects of authoritarianism and nationalism. These include an emphasis on combat and excellence and a control of information. The emphases on external combat include things such as supremacy of the military, and a desire for territorial expansion. However, there also are aspects of internal combat within a nation, such as an obsession with ‘enemies within’, identification of scapegoats for current problems, terror and lack of human rights. Jason Stanley, in his book “How Fascism Works” outlines another serious aspect of fascist societies, which is anti-intellectualism. He states that “in a fascist ideology, there is only one legitimate viewpoint, that of the dominant nation”. The control of information is indescribably dangerous within a nation, as it can contribute to phenomenons like groupthink, which can bring a nation further from the point of return. The control of information allowed for intense nationalism, and an alienation of scapegoats in the context of Nazi Germany. The scapegoats in question were mainly the Jewish population, however hate was also passed onto other minority groups such as Romani people, homosexuals, and those with disabilities. An ancient stereotype that Jewish people control the world led to widespread anti-antisemitism during the decline of the Weimar Republic, leading to legislation that slowly stripped them of their human rights.

One of the characteristics of fascist ideology that people find appealing is intense nationalism. This nationalism leads to a feeling of superiority among other countries, nationalities, and origins. Additionally, the line between harmful nationalism and healthy patriotism varies from person to person, and it is pushed further and further in a fascist society, until it does not exist. Following 9/11 especially, intense patriotism has been more and more common in the United States. This descent into xenophobia, Islamophobia, and racism (especially following the election of Donald Trump in 2016) has led many to believe that America is heading towards becoming a fascist state. Many feel “that the rise of far-right groups like the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers, and especially their participation in the “insurrection” of January 6, 2021, suggest that there’s an unprecedented threat to U.S. democracy that only the word “fascism” can describe.” (The New Republic). For this reason, many believe that Donald Trump and his far-right followers have sent the United States into a descent towards fascism. Donald Trump has exhibited traits of a fascist leader, especially in the form of anti-intellectualism. He has expressed desires to get rid of the department of education, and supply mainly christian media such as bibles and sets of the ten commandments to schools. This is an especially growing problem in the American South, especially in Florida where things like the “Don't Say Gay Bill” help force a right-wing political agenda.

This classmate outlines several ideas, most of which I tend to agree with. Their most compelling idea is that the “line between harmful nationalism and healthy patriotism varies from person to person.” I agree that nationalism and patriotism can be very similar, and that one is positive while the other is not. However, I think the person could have been clearer on the second part of the statement, clarifying whether they meant the opinion of what nationalism and patriotism varies from person to person or whether different people are subject to different “lines.” My own post, similarly to this classmate, discusses the scapegoating of Jewish people by the Nazis, and the establishment of “Them.” This student goes further than I did, examining how other groups were also targeted by the Nazis, such as Polish people and the LGBTQ community. I appreciated how this student related the aspect of extreme nationalism to the current situation in the United States, as I think that nationalism can be very dangerous, and should be closely monitored. The student does a good job explaining the point of view of certain people, but shies away from any personal statements. While I think the student should give some of their own opinions about nationalism, I overall agree with most of their points and appreciate their point of view.

Originally posted by 1984_lordoftheflies on December 04, 2024 09:42

In my opinion, one important characteristic of fascism is anti-intellectualism. The Anti-Intellectual reading from How Fascism Works (Jason Stanley) says, “Fascist politics, however, makes room for the study of myths as fact. In fascist ideology, the function of the education system is to glorify the mythic past.” This glorification of the mythic past is present in every fascistic movement, like in Italy, where Mussolini worshipped ancient Rome. It’s interesting to see this anti-intellectualism in our own society. Many people, especially Republicans, ridicule those who study humanities. Gender studies, critical race theory, and many other courses are questioned for being useless or radical leftism. Another important characteristic of fascism is supremacy of the military. Worshipping the military is especially dangerous, because it encourages a culture of violence in society. Hitler and Mussolini both hailed the military as the greatest prize of the nation. America certainly has this trait. Our military spending is the highest of any country, and if you rank all of the countries in terms of military spending, our budget is higher than the next 9 combined. Ultra-nationalism is also a very important characteristic of fascism. In Germany, this ultra-nationalism was triggered after the treaty of Versailles, which was completely unfair and hurt the German people. The Nazis resurged the sense of nationalism for the German people. Demands for territorial expansion in Europe were supported by this ultra-nationalism, because the people viewed the needs of their state as being more important than the sovereignty of others. We can also observe this with the fascist movement in Italy, where Mussolini violently conquered Ethiopia. The identification of Jews as controlling the state and communists as being enemies to the state was also supported by this ultra-nationalism, because the needs of the state was the most important thing, killing people who were seen as hurting it was encouraged. The most important characteristic of fascism is its violence. Obviously, fascism in Germany came with the holocaust and the death of 6 million Jewish people. Violence is the most important because that is fascism’s supreme goal. Other characteristics can be viewed as ways to numb people to the extreme violence. Anti-intellectualism, especially against the humanities, gets people to not think about the violence they are seeing around them. Supremacy of the military creates a culture which encourages violence instead of condemning it. Dehumanization of certain groups of people allows the general population to look past or encourage murdering them. Propaganda and media control convince people that the violence they know is happening is good, or lies about the violence itself. Ultra-nationalism gets people to other those outside of their country, and thus encourage their destruction.

It’s hard to determine if there are nations experiencing a neofascist era. How many traits of fascism constitute a full-on fascist era? I can point to many traits of fascism and say that we have had them in America for a long time. On top of the ones I already said, we have had territorial expansion in Guam, Puerto Rico, etc, as well as countries we wanted control over during the Cold War. We have also had violence and a disregard for human rights many times, like the War on Terror, bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, or the forced relocation of Japanese Americans into internment camps. We have ultra-nationalism, standing for the pledge of allegiance to the flag every day. However, most people don’t consider America to be a fascist country, so where do we draw the line? I also think that the definition of fascism changes as our political issues change. In the modern day, both the US and Europe have immigration as a massive political issue, which it really wasn’t to this degree when fascism originally rose. On top of this, climate change is another massive issue, which wasn’t discussed at all when Hitler and Mussolini came to power. I think the stance of denying climate change’s existence should always be considered fascistic. Denying climate change allows it to continue to wreak havoc on more and more people. Other traits of fascism aren’t as prevalent today, such as the staunch anti-communism of the WWII era. Now that communism doesn’t have as large of a presence globally, there is no need for fascists to advocate for anti-communism. Overall, it’s difficult to say what countries are experiencing a neo-fascist era, I think it’s more efficacious to point out and push back on fascistic actions and policies than to call certain leaders or governments ‘neo-fascist.’

I agree with your insights on identifying a fascist society. However, I believe it is often much harder to push back against fascist actions, even when we are able to recognize them. Throughout history, citizens have been able to identify wrongdoing and oppressive actions in real time, but have often been too fearful or lacked the means to resist. In addition to the difficulty of resisting the actions of a fascist leader, it can also be just as challenging, if not more so, to identify whether an entire country is currently in a neo-fascist era. The signs of fascism can be subtle and gradual, often creeping into society in ways that are hard to detect until it's too late.

I don’t think standing for the Pledge of Allegiance, in and of itself, makes us a fascist society, especially considering that many classrooms do not require students to stand for it. The voluntary nature of it in many settings doesn’t necessarily point to any kind of oppressive or nationalistic agenda. However, if there were a situation where people were being forced to stand for the Pledge, with some form of consequence for not doing so, then that would raise serious concerns. In that case, it would be more reasonable to view such a society as leaning towards fascism or extreme nationalism, as it would indicate an enforced uniformity of thought or action that suppresses individual freedoms.

Originally posted by Wolfpack1635 on December 04, 2024 08:47

In facism the establishment of a nationalist state that has authoritarian rule is central to creating a society that is left powerless and under the full power of fascist rule. Leadership under fascism creates a unified national identity that excludes other groups as “others”. The state has control over aspects of life like politics, and social and economic functions. In How Fascism Works Jason Stanley explains fascism thrives off central power that reduces individual freedom.

However, we can not call something blatantly fascist, as characteristics of rule can not be seen as concrete. Throughout history, fascism has taken forms depending on historical context. For example, fascist movements in Spain, Italy, and Germany all exhibit unique fascist elements but have certain similarities. In Italy, the widespread suppression of political opponents and organizations was met with greater resistance by sources of authority such as the Italian Catholic Church which limited the impact Italian fascism had on society as a whole. However, German Nazism took hold, and traditional sources of German authority such as the German Protestant and Catholic Churches, did not have as great an influence on the resistance fascism.

Although fascism has had varying influence as a result of historical influence, there are structural similarities across all fascist societies that are important to recognize in order to prevent societal radicalization in the future.

Fascist society's nationalism often exhibits a need for territorial expansion that can be manifested in the glorification of violence as a way to achieve power and national goals. Violence inspires nationalism and populations begin to take pride in being stronger than others.

Extremist movements often use a charismatic leader figure who promises to achieve a goal to promote the greater good of a nation such as the movement to restore national power. So-called great leaders can be looked up to by fascist societies and are all controlling figures.

Today, political polarization has led to the increased casting of political opponents as enemies and it is vital to recognize patterns of facism to identify movements which could have a negative effect on democracy.

We can see trends of fascism today in the United States, as society has seen a rise in nationalism and xenophobia. This can be seen through the Donald Trump campaign using the “America First” slogan which has led to many far-right conservatives adopting extreme nationalism that has led to the discrimination of others.

Furthermore under Trump anti-immigration ideas have grown rapidly and taken on myths. Although, varying in severity, the idea that immigrants were consuming pets in a small Ohio town has been seen in fascist societies that are used to cast a " group" as others. In fascist Germany, myths arose such as the Protocols of the Elders Zion which labeled Jewish people as seeking world domination. This cast Jewish groups as common enemies for the German people who felt united in hate towards the hardships experienced in Germany following WWI.

Furthermore, right-wing political extremism has exhibited authoritarian tendencies such as his denouncement of the media for being “fake”. Trump has openly laid attacks on CNN and the New York Times labeling them as untrustworthy, these actions destabilize the media and promote state-run ideas that come from one central figure. The denouncement of the media also leads to the formation of a cult of personality where many supporters are unwavering in their support regardless of policy or actions because they are unable to be properly educated on the effects of policy which often comes from news.

In the United States strong constitutional checks are in place to prevent a branch of government from controlling too much power. Fascism historically rose as a result of inherently fragile democracies such as Hitler’s rise in Weimar Germany and the government has protections against a potential rise of authoritarianism. However, fascism does not always have to occur when there is a full political collapse and it can be gradual like the erosion of the rule of law and the idea of restoring national pride.

Today, the lack of belief in reliable media, the presence of authority figures, and the casting of an “other” group ultimately led to an erosion of trust in political institutions. Following the 2020 election, many political extremists doubted the election results and went as far as to storm the Capitol building in Washington. A central figure used his voice of authority to influence others to prevent a peaceful transfer of power. The mistrust in government creates fragility in democracy, a cornerstone of fascist movements.

Overall, this post had many compelling ideas, but I think the most compelling one was about Trump discrediting news outlets and how that parallels a lot of what Hitler did. As Wolfpack1635 said, labeling news sources like CNN and the New York Times as untrustworthy “destabilize[s] the media and promote[s] state-run ideas that come from one central figure.” I think this is very calculated on Trump’s part. He targets sources that are generally considered very reputable & are used by a lot of people, but ones that typically are a bit more left-leaning. By targeting these, Trump can paint the people who criticize his actions as crazy or too extreme, which leads people to stop trusting them. This funnels people to other sources of news, but with all of the largest ones being “debunked,” people have to get their news from less reputable sources or straight from Trump himself.

This post also had several other good ideas. I agreed with almost all of them, like Trump using MAGA to get his followers to adopt extreme nationalism, spreading lies about immigrants (like them eating animals), and creating a cult-like group of followers. The one thing I slightly disagreed with was that the constitutional checks the US has are good enough to prevent fascism & that fascism only rises from inherently fragile democracies. While it is true that our constitution has checks in place, I’m not sure how well they’d be able to keep Trump in line. We haven’t really seen someone like him before, who so clearly wants to take so much power, so I don’t know if they will work now, especially with a Republican-controlled House & Senate—I think only time will be able to tell.

Fascism manifests in a society facing economic instability and political uncertainty. It thrives on promises of order and reassurance, it undermines the reality and complexity of problems and offers simplistic solutions. Fear and resentment towards the government is exploited by fascist regimes to gain traction, they capitalize on ensuring people that they'll be able to provide a glorified future.

Right-wing authoritarian personalities are an important characteristic of historic fascist societies. According to The Psychology of Facism, Fromm describes the authoritarian attitude as one that “[authoritarian attitude] affirms, seeks out and enjoys the subjugation of men under higher external power, whether the power is the state or a leader, natural law, the past or God. The strong and powerful are simply admired”. This emphasizes the strong ultra-nationalism agenda push for cultural supremacy and the embedded authoritarianism in the parties ideologies restrict certain freedoms through centralizing power, which are specific aspects of fascist societies. These leaders also tend to dismiss checks and balances. Other characteristics include conventionalism, which is a reverence for traditional beliefs such as patriotism, gender roles, religion, and sexuality and aggression, which highlights the willingness to harm or punish those who deviate from established authority. Under conventionalism, groups face discrimination, violence, assimilation, scapegoating which occurred in the Wiemar Republic. Fascism appealed to the upper class who wanted order in the face of the rise of communism which spread fear. The weak democratic institutions appealed to those frustrated with a powerless government. A fascist regime was viewed as an efficient alternative to democracy. The propaganda present made fascism seem more attractive and also inevitable, the cults of personality and their charisma heavily influenced people. Charismatic leadership draw people to leaders who reject political norms, make bold statements, and promise stability in times of uncertainty. In addition, the exclusionary nationalism accepted in the rise of immigration is another characteristic of fascism that is appealing to people because they feel threatened by other groups and want to protect their country. Fascist rhetoric is also more accessible through social media, where misinformation is more widespread.

The United States is a nation that is currently experiencing a neo-fascist era, the rise of far-right groups pose an unprecedented threat to US democracy, an example of that was the insurrection of the white house on January 6, 2021. Furthermore, Trump GOP’s claims of voter fraud and its attempts to limit voter participation threaten democracy, Trump as an individual also embodies fascist characteristics. His following has turned into a cult, where his popular slogan "Make America Great Again" has turned into a hyper-nationalist movement. He has openly scapegoated minorities for issues such as immigration, resulting in extreme hostility towards minorities. The political state of the US is currently imbalanced, with Trump's rise to power making way for a possible authoritarian/dictatorship rule.However, the US as a whole can be distanced from being identified as a fascist because of the checks and balances and liberties it has in place. I believe we are headed in the direction of a neo-fascist society but aren't completely though, however our current president does embody fascist elements.

Originally posted by onecreamtwosugarslightice on December 04, 2024 19:57

The ideology behind fascism is a glorified escape from reality. Fascism is essentially a last resort for societies and people that are left with little-to-no hope for their future and need a false sense of security. When individuals or groups feel a profound lack of hope for their future, fascism offers a seemingly reassuring but ultimately false sense of security and order. It simplifies complex social, economic, and political issues into black-and-white terms, often scapegoating marginalized communities or external forces as the cause of societal woes. This approach provides an illusion of control and empowerment, appealing to those seeking solace in the face of uncertainty or decline. However, this reliance on false narratives and authoritarian structures not only distorts reality but also perpetuates cycles of oppression and division, failing to address the root causes of societal challenges.

I feel like a society must be incredibly desperate for change in order for fascism to rise within it. This desperation often stems from deep-seated crises, whether economic, political, or social, that leave people feeling powerless. In such moments, when traditional systems seem incapable of addressing the growing issues, people may become vulnerable to ideologies that promise swift, radical solutions. Fascism thrives in this environment by exploiting fear, uncertainty, and the longing for stability. It offers a vision of change that is often aggressive and authoritarian, appealing to those who feel that incremental reforms are insufficient or that their very way of life is under threat. The rise of fascism, then, is not merely a political shift but a reflection of a society grappling with its most profound anxieties and a longing for a future that feels secure and unified, even if it means sacrificing freedom and diversity in the process. It is so appealing because it promises change, whether good or bad. When things hit such a bad point in a society, any change could be considered a good change so long as it doesn’t emulate the previous hardships faced.

I believe that there definitely are societies that could be considered fascist, but I would argue against the notion that America is a fascist society. While aspects of these traits might manifest in certain political movements or policies within the U.S., labeling the entire society as fascist oversimplifies the complexities of its political and social structure. America is built on a foundation of democratic principles, including checks and balances, the separation of powers, and constitutional rights that protect individual freedoms. While these ideals are not always perfectly upheld, they remain a significant barrier against the wholesale adoption of fascist ideologies. This doesn’t dismiss the presence of movements within America that may carry fascist undertones, yet these are symptoms of larger societal challenges rather than evidence of an entirely fascist system. It is crucial to differentiate between concerning trends within a democracy and what defines a fascist regime.

I found the idea that fascism could only rise if society is desperate for change the most compelling because its an interesting approach on how easily fascism can manifest itself in a society. It frames fascism as a reaction instead of an ideology, I understand this point of view since fascism typically capitalizes on desperation in the face of uncertainty and chaos. It is accepted when a society is in a vulnerable state, however I feel as though fascism has the power to rise in any society despite its standing. The propaganda and leader behind the movement ultimately influences its implementation in society. I agree with this students idea that America's foundation of democracy and emphasis on upholding civil liberties is a significant barrier to the US fully adopting fascist ideologies. I also mentioned how fascism is appealing in the sense that it offers hope and promise to people in challenging stages of life.This idea is also highlighted in other peers posts, where they also state that the US embodies fascist ideologies on some level but not in the extremist sense. This response was very thoughtful and insightful, going more in depth on what factors cause fascism to rise would make this even stronger than it is!

Originally posted by opinionated person on December 04, 2024 08:15

Fascism manifests in a society through unrest and manipulation. It’s often used as a last resort in times of dire need, which could be part of the reason why fascism is so hated: it shows a powerful country’s worst fears for itself in real life. A prime example of a fascist society is at the end of the Weimar Republic and beginning of Nazi Germany, where there was huge hyperinflation, rapidly growing antisemitism, and no stable central government, so there was lots of warring between political parties, with communists being the most hated. Everyone saw each other as an enemy, and it was easy for Hitler and the Nazis to prey on the feelings in this time of crisis, especially by using antisemitism to unite the German people against a common enemy, and in Germany’s case, it was Jewish people, despite them being less than 1 percent of the population and not having much sway over German politics.

Fascism manifests because the people in a country don’t have anything else to turn to. They could also feel like their previous government failed them and so they have to turn to other options, or in the case of the Weimar Republic, they miss the stable autocracy that was before World War I. For a society to be considered fascist, it has to have a strong autocratic leader and totalitarian state, military superiority, emphasis on the past and how the state will return to that, identification of a group as responsible for all the nation’s problems, return to traditional gender roles, lack of human rights, and violence and terror. The strong, autocratic leader is one of the most necessary aspects, especially at the beginning of a fascist reign. The aspects of fascist society that people initially find appealing are the control over politics and society that differ so much from the previous chaos, and the joining of different groups in society against a common enemy.

There are definitely nations that are experiencing a neo-fascist era, especially Afghanistan. Women in Afghanistan have numerous laws against them, such as being required to be fully covered in public, not being able to have access to education, and most notably, the law that prohibits them from hearing each others’ voices in public. Another example of a country that has neo-fascist aspects is Iran, which has banned books, similar to the US, and not translated into Persian even books that are written by Iranian authors. Fascist aspects can be seen in North Korea as well, with its authoritarian leader and extremely strict totalitarian regime, but also in the United States and across Europe. In the New York Times article titled “With Trump’s Victory, Europe’s Populist Sees Return of a Fellow Believer”, it says, “For Mr. Orban and like-minded populist European politicians in Germany, the Netherlands, Serbia and elsewhere, this week’s election not only returned a fellow believer in tough immigration policies to the White House.” Populist, or far-right, leaders like Viktor Orban, Donald Trump, and Giorgia Meloni, are known for being very anti-immigration, even going so far as to build high walls guarded by soldiers to keep immigrants out in Hungary’s case, or proposing a plan to send immigrants to detention camps in Albania in Italy’s case.

I find it interesting how your post focused on the hate of fascism initially in the world. When placed in the middle of a crisis, many do not consider the harmful effects of various decisions; instead, they allow small aggressions to pass under the assumption that things are going well for the most part. People will seek different solutions to justify their actions, rather than taking some accountability. Because of this, I disagree a bit about citizens having no other option but to succumb to fascist ideals since it alleviates a bit of the burden regarding the safety of innocent people from them. A bit under half of the German people in the beginning willingly participated; however, I do agree that they were not aware of the reach that their choices would have in the future, especially with the daily lives of Jewish Germans. Also, I am curious about more of your views regarding the United States seeming to enter a neo-fascist era. How detrimental are these ideas of regression on teenagers and children in the future? Your post has made me question how these changes will affect family dynamics. Many families will be torn apart through aggressive immigration policies; yet, without them in place mediating immigration to some extent then overpopulation will harm those already residing within the United States. Decisions like this can easily be replicated from past mistakes from prior generations if leaders are not careful about even the little details as people’s futures are left in the hands of politicians and government officials who may not be trustworthy.

Originally posted by snr25 on December 05, 2024 16:29

Fascism manifests in a society facing economic instability and political uncertainty. It thrives on promises of order and reassurance, it undermines the reality and complexity of problems and offers simplistic solutions. Fear and resentment towards the government is exploited by fascist regimes to gain traction, they capitalize on ensuring people that they'll be able to provide a glorified future.

Right-wing authoritarian personalities are an important characteristic of historic fascist societies. According to The Psychology of Facism, Fromm describes the authoritarian attitude as one that “[authoritarian attitude] affirms, seeks out and enjoys the subjugation of men under higher external power, whether the power is the state or a leader, natural law, the past or God. The strong and powerful are simply admired”. This emphasizes the strong ultra-nationalism agenda push for cultural supremacy and the embedded authoritarianism in the parties ideologies restrict certain freedoms through centralizing power, which are specific aspects of fascist societies. These leaders also tend to dismiss checks and balances. Other characteristics include conventionalism, which is a reverence for traditional beliefs such as patriotism, gender roles, religion, and sexuality and aggression, which highlights the willingness to harm or punish those who deviate from established authority. Under conventionalism, groups face discrimination, violence, assimilation, scapegoating which occurred in the Wiemar Republic. Fascism appealed to the upper class who wanted order in the face of the rise of communism which spread fear. The weak democratic institutions appealed to those frustrated with a powerless government. A fascist regime was viewed as an efficient alternative to democracy. The propaganda present made fascism seem more attractive and also inevitable, the cults of personality and their charisma heavily influenced people. Charismatic leadership draw people to leaders who reject political norms, make bold statements, and promise stability in times of uncertainty. In addition, the exclusionary nationalism accepted in the rise of immigration is another characteristic of fascism that is appealing to people because they feel threatened by other groups and want to protect their country. Fascist rhetoric is also more accessible through social media, where misinformation is more widespread.

The United States is a nation that is currently experiencing a neo-fascist era, the rise of far-right groups pose an unprecedented threat to US democracy, an example of that was the insurrection of the white house on January 6, 2021. Furthermore, Trump GOP’s claims of voter fraud and its attempts to limit voter participation threaten democracy, Trump as an individual also embodies fascist characteristics. His following has turned into a cult, where his popular slogan "Make America Great Again" has turned into a hyper-nationalist movement. He has openly scapegoated minorities for issues such as immigration, resulting in extreme hostility towards minorities. The political state of the US is currently imbalanced, with Trump's rise to power making way for a possible authoritarian/dictatorship rule.However, the US as a whole can be distanced from being identified as a fascist because of the checks and balances and liberties it has in place. I believe we are headed in the direction of a neo-fascist society but aren't completely though, however our current president does embody fascist elements.

This post has a lot of great ideas that highlight the essence of what Fascism is and how it is able to exist today. One point I want to highlight is that Fascism offers simplistic solutions for complex problems. While Fascism does address political concerns, it tends to oversimplify them by giving solutions that scapegoat other groups. Take for example Nazi Germany, their take on the economic depression during the Weimar period was due to scheming Jews rather than the economic collapse globally. This idea is really persuasive in convincing a reader that Facism can exist today and does exist today because it is so easily adopted for its attractive qualities such as its oversimplification of complex problems. I agree with many of the elements of Fascism that this response highlights and particularly noted one that I did not mention in my own response; cultural supremacy. This is a major theme in Nazi Germany and other Fascist regimes, and thus acts as a key part in establishing a hierarchy within society. In turn, a dichotomy Fascists societies result in, allowing for authoritarianism. Another point I agreed with was about Fascist propaganda’s accessibility through the media. This is something I did not highlight in my response but definitely noticed. The rise of Nazism in Germany was in large part due to propaganda tactics implemented through radio and newspapers which influenced ordinary people to become part of a movement. My views align with much of what this response suggests and even provides additional evidence and depth to my own argument.

Originally posted by orangemindss on December 04, 2024 09:46

Fascism can manifest itself in many forms within various societies as it depends heavily on the culture that is present, as well as the social norms of the region. It can look different across various locations and the severity of it can vary depending on exposure level and conformity. Places such as the United States of America are often deemed unable to acquire the alleged extreme levels of fascism; however, many refuse to believe just how susceptible they are to manipulation, whether it is governmental or social. Fascist societies must obtain the trust of the people to proceed with any of its planned means of control, choosing a group that is oppressed and uplifting them through basic ideals that many can agree to. The media is used as a way to inform their followers, but manipulate it to limit how much they learn about their intentions.

Many people are drawn into fascist ideology because they are finally given a space where they feel represented and seen. A person is able to create a new identity for themselves, especially in the United States where people believe that the society would be better off how it used to be: more conservative. This idea has become more prevalent in the latest presidential elections as many became more open about their reasons for wanting one over another. In the New York Times’ article “With Trump’s Victory, Europe’s Populist Right Sees Return of a Fellow Believer,” Andrew Higgins shares information with readers regarding the positive reaction to Donald Trump’s win in the 2024 presidential election, seeing it as a win for their countries as well. These countries feel that Trump embodies their version of the most ideal leader and it could also be seen as a way that they plan to exploit the United States for their own gain, destroying anything that gets in their way. This raises concerns about the safety and well being of the citizens of the United States, but also for those of smaller, developing nations. They look to the United States as an example of how to lead their government, and if the United States is not displaying a peaceful transfer of power, then why should they? Many of the celebrating nations, on the other hand, envision Trump as an opposition to democracy, which would allow for chaos to ensue in the States as the fundamental roots of the country stem from democracy: the ability to freely speak and express one’s self.

All of these vast decisions made by the leaders of the United States are viewed by outside countries, primarily those that are newly industrialized such as Ghana. Ghana has held a significant level of democracy, despite being influenced by colonialism and imperialism; however, its government is heavily influenced by American policies. Many of their political views are based on the representation given by the United States, which is along the same standards as other developing nations. Oftentimes, people seek an example of how to run their societies and become the strongest of all, selecting portrayals of an idealized republic. Despite this, many fall victim to manipulation tactics made by already industrialized places that are power hungry, ignoring the consequences of their actions and how it affects innocent civilians of other regions.

You make a really interesting point about how a fascist leader will make people feel represented and seen. I feel like that's what is happening with Donald Trump’s followers in a way, which is worrying. Before Trump, the republican party to a lot of people was the party of white, elite, wall street, christian Americans. However, when I think of republicans that's not who I picture, because Donald Trump was able to unite a lot more working class, immigrant raised Americans. It is almost like the party stereotypes switched in a sense, because a lot of left-leaning people are college educated and live in major cities.

Additionally, a lot of these people truly idolize Trump in a way that scares me and makes me laugh. People PRAY to Trump, have weddings themed after him, and will make it their whole personality. The idolization of Trump has also been really similar to fascism as you mentioned. Like you said, I don't think Trump represents America, and the outside perspectives from other countries are really telling. The issue, in my opinion, is the different subcultures of the United States that think as groups. A rural town in Texas would alienate a liberal, and a very liberal community like a school or office could do the same to a conservative. These subcultures lead to isolation from other communities, and people find solace in Trump’s fandom, like they do for a parish. Because of this, it will be really hard, if not impossible, to get the country to reject Trump.

Originally posted by littleprincess26 on December 02, 2024 22:59

Why do societies, especially in times of crisis, turn to fascist ideologies? Fascism is based mainly on authoritarianism and nationalism, as well as the rejection of democracy. Throughout history, we have learned that fascism is able to manifest in societies going through times of crisis due to fear and uncertainty. Although it may be difficult for some to see the appeal, it is essential to consider the conditions that give rise to it. Fascism is usually able to manifest in an unstable society. For example, the Weimar Republic after WWI was especially weak due to the economic problems, political instability, and etc. German citizens were dealing with heavy emotions at the time that made them vulnerable, as some felt hopeless and betrayed by their government. This allowed for leaders such as Hitler to rise to power.

The appeal of fascism is that it seems to give solutions to complex problems. It often promises many great things such as a powerful and united nation and most of the time, those goals and ideals are unattainable. However, fascist leaders know how to exploit the society’s circumstances and the vulnerability of the people. In the Weimar Republic, there were severe economic issues, political divides, and a sense of hopelessness after the war. This made it easier for Hitler to come in and offer a solution and because the citizens were in such a difficult situation, they would rather put their problems into the hands of someone else. Many Germans were also afraid of Jewish people being a threat, and Hitler used that to his advantage to gain favor for fascist ideas such as the suppression of Jewish people in order to bring control back to the nation. Fascism offers people a false sense of security and solution.

Although it is difficult to define what is fascism and what isn’t, there are certain characteristics that are commonly found in fascist societies. For example, fascism needs loyalty to a powerful authoritarian leader. This leader serves as a catalyst and influences large groups of people through hyper-nationalism and propaganda. They often rely on propaganda to control large populations, solidify power and create a sense of unity. Propaganda is able to demonize their “enemies” and scapegoat minority groups to justify their extreme control. Scapegoating also ties in with xenophobia which is the fear of foreign influences. This again further emphasizes a sense of unity and belonging for people who are feeling especially vulnerable. Hyper-nationalism is also used to not only glorify the leader, but also to emphasize a return to their glorious past which is often mythical or exaggerated.

It is difficult to define whether a society is fascist or not because the ideology is adaptable and can be looked at case to case depending on many factors such as specific historical or social circumstances. Many argue that there are current nations that are experiencing a neo-fascist era, for example, the United States. It can be argued that the United States is or is close to neo-fascism because of many factors. For example, president Trump has gained a large following of supporters and goes by his popular saying “Make America Great Again” which can be argued to resemble hyper-nationalism when used by his many supporters. He is also known for speaking out against immigrants and minorities by scapegoating them for the issues the U.S. is facing. Others argue that the U.S. should not be labeled Neo-fascist because we lack totalitarian control since we still have many liberties. Additionally, America has many systems set in place such as the constitution that are against these fascist ideas. Some worry that by labeling the United States as neo-fascist, it can oversimplify the meaning of fascism. In the article Does American Fascism Exist? (New Republic), the author states “ Fascism doesn’t land like a thunderbolt; it creeps, enabled by those who dismiss its warning signs as overblown or alarmist”, which highlights the progressive nature of fascism, describing how it is able to take control slowly rather than overnight. This quote again emphasizes how difficult it is to define fascism and decide whether a society is fascist or not. Fascism’s complexity allows for us to discuss uncomfortable questions about our very own democratic systems but it is crucial to recognize any signs and to stay true to our values.

I agree with many points on why societies, particularly during times of crisis, may turn to fascist ideologies. Fascism thrives in times of fear, uncertainty, and instability and often feels compelling to citizens who may feel stronger because of the ideas of fascist rules. The Weimar Republic in particular showed that charismatic leaders like Hitler can influence vulnerable populations. I agree with this idea and it shows that in times of uncertainty, many can throw away their moral ideas and be completely overtaken by fascist beliefs. Furthermore, group behavior inspires others to participate in the same fascist growth.

The rise of authoritarian leadership, hyper-nationalism, propaganda, scapegoating, and xenophobia helps to show that fascist ideologies can be present in societies that seem far from authoritarian at first glance. This ties to current political movements, particularly in the United States. The rise of hyper-nationalist rhetoric, the scapegoating of minorities, and the appeal of populist leaders like Donald Trump could be seen as signs of neo-fascism and show that countries do not need to be overtly authoritarian for fascism to take footholds.

I also believe that the point made on the potential dangers of labeling a society as fascist too quickly is very important. However, it is only touched on and I think an exploration of the consequences of oversimplification could lead to an even better response.

Originally posted by Norse_history on December 03, 2024 18:38

Fascism, despite what it is made out to be by many who seek to use the term as a means for attacking political opponents, is an authoritarian government that fits certain criteria. Although fascist societies contain many characteristics, they all must share an important few to be considered fascist. The society must contain extreme nationalism, to the point where anyone who is deemed to be an outsider is looked down upon or persecuted. Secondly, the nation must be militaristic in some sense, as fascist societies would not be able to function without an enforcing power to silence the dissenting few or many. Finally, a fascist society must be authoritarian in nature and contain a strong leader. While the strong leader is one of the most important aspects of a fascist society, as one can rally the masses and prevent disputes over control, it doesn’t matter who the leader is. For example, it could have been many other Italians with similar belief systems, not just Mussolini.

When people see the characteristics of fascism listed above, especially people in Western democracies similar to the United States, they tend to be against it. I believe that most Americans, when asked, would be against a nation that is controlled by one person who possesses a strong military without checks and balances and an agenda against any outsiders. However, few fascist societies have gone straight to those circumstances. Rather, they slowly took control of the government as the people became increasingly dissatisfied with the status quo. By rising to power in this way, the fascist ideology becomes more and more appealing. A person participating in a democracy who has experienced immense hardship in recent years will look for a specific problem. Oftentimes, this person is steered in the direction of outsiders, especially if they have recently lost their job or had economic troubles and heard of foreigners with jobs. Looking to fix the problem, people would vote for politicians who vow to put their “true citizens” first, not worrying about the negative aspects of the politician, as the downsides often wouldn’t affect them. Once that nationalist ideology is elected to all branches of government, it takes very little to transform into a fascist society, and the people who voted for them likely wouldn’t argue, because why complain when “their politicians” are in power.

Although those conditions can easily lead to fascist society, they can also be prevented. Furthermore, other conditions can lead to fascist societies, such as some nations which are currently experiencing neo-fascist eras. Some have non-dominant movements or movements that border on fascist ideology, such as Germany’s AfD and PVV in the Netherlands. These nations are beings exposed to fascist ideology, but have largely prevented its rise to a clear position of dominance. However, other nations have not done so, and are currently experiencing fascist society near or at its fullest. A prime example of this in Europe is with “Viktor Orbán’s Fidesz in Hungary,” which is “lliberal, and with strong anti-LGBTQI+ views.” The Fidesz party gained a nearly ⅔ majority in their country's legislature by way of vote, and took that opportunity to alter the nation’s laws to allow for the semi-dictatorship they currently have. As Hungary now has a mostly authoritarian government and a strong disdain for the “other,” it is a clear example of how fascism is not just a threat of the 1900s, but a threat that continues to this day.

Your analysis emphasizes key elements of fascism, such as extreme nationalism, militarism, and authoritarianism. These characteristics are foundational, but the way they unfold in society deserves more focus. Fascist movements often begin by capitalizing on economic hardship and social unrest, offering simplistic solutions like scapegoating minorities or outsiders, which distract from more complex systemic issues. This process can gradually lead to the rise of authoritarian leaders, promising stability while undermining democratic institutions. I also think that anti-intellection and media control are two vital elements to a successful fascist movement. While the elements that you mentioned are very focused on building strong and feared power, one of the quiet powers comes in the form of more subtle control.

Fascism thrives on creating a sharp distinction between a "pure" national in-group and an out-group, often using race, religion, or immigration as points of division. I agree that leaders like Viktor Orbán in Hungary provide a contemporary example of a regime that, while not fully fascist, demonstrates fascist tendencies, such as curbing judicial independence, limiting press freedom, and promoting illiberal values.

Importantly, while fascism is a real and present threat, civil society plays a crucial role in resisting it. I agree that fascism often gains ground when citizens become disengaged or disillusioned with the status quo. Vigilance, active participation in democracy, and the defense of democratic values are essential in preventing the rise of authoritarian movements. Like you said, fascism isn’t just a historical relic; it remains a potent and dangerous ideology that can resurface if democratic institutions are not actively protected.

Originally posted by fulton on December 04, 2024 09:16

The term "fascism" can mean different things to different people based on their history or point of view. It is a difficult concept to describe because it varies based on the context. Although we may point out historical instances of fascist leaders such as Benito Mussolini in Italy and Adolf Hitler in Germany, the concept of a fascist leader is not universal. Societies experiencing severe political, social, or economic crises that lead to general instability and dissatisfaction are more likely to experience fascism. People are more susceptible to extremist ideas when they feel helpless, unsure about the future of their countries.

When the current system begins to break down, people start questioning not just their leaders, but the very foundation of their society. This creates fertile ground for movements that promise a quick, decisive solution. Fascism often appeals by offering a vision of national unity or a return to former glory—Trump using “Make America Great Again”—, tapping into people's desire for security and a clear direction. At first, fascist leaders may seem like the answer, offering hope for a better future, but over time, they can shift toward authoritarian tactics. They may start by avoiding too much controversy, but eventually, they weaken democratic institutions, suppress opposition, and concentrate power, all in the name of maintaining national unity. The initial optimism and hope they inspire can mask more dangerous, authoritarian goals. While fascism may seem attractive to people desperate for change, once in power, it often leads to the erosion of freedoms and rights.

As for the United States, I do not think we are a fully neo-fascist society yet, but certain trends could push us in that direction. Donald Trump is not a fascist leader in the strictest sense, even though he shares some characteristics with past fascist leaders—things like populist nationalism, attacks on the media, and vilifying political opponents. Trump's rhetoric often echoed authoritarian themes, promoting an exclusive national identity and framing his opponents as enemies of the people. Many politicians will take a campion form of answering questions and policies by what they think the population wants to hear, on the contrary a fascist leader with take it to an extreme and way out of bounds to win an election. However, the U.S. still has stronger democratic checks and balances compared to the systems that allowed fascism to take hold in Europe. Even though Trump displayed authoritarian tendencies—like trying to overturn the results of the 2020 election—the overall system of government, along with the media and political opposition, helped prevent a complete collapse of democratic institutions.

That said, there are worrying signs. The U.S. has seen increasing political polarization, a rise in far-right movements, and more anti-democratic rhetoric in certain parts of society. Economic struggles, cultural fears, and a sense of losing national identity are all factors that can make fascism appealing. While we are not a neo-fascist society yet, these trends could lead the U.S. toward more authoritarianism if they are not addressed. To avoid that, we need to protect and uphold our democratic institutions and norms.

I think fulton’s idea that fascism can mean different things and that it is difficult to describe is a really interesting sentiment. I hadn’t previously considered it in that way, but after reading their response it makes some sense. I mostly agree that it really does depend on the historical context and the ideas of individual societies. Also, their idea that fascism is most appealing to people when their society is breaking down and they feel helpless and uncertain, is something that I saw in a lot of other people’s responses and is something I myself comment on. Having that feeling of not knowing what could happen and then seeking solutions in strong, decisive leaders is crucial to fascism. As mentioned in fulton’s response, these leaders present themselves as having answers and being able to restore order and glory, drawing people in. At the end of their post, they go a lot deeper into American society than I did, but everything they said seems accurate and is something I generally agree with. While fulton did a really good job overall, I think their transition from their first idea about the concept of fascism to why it may be appealing could be a little smoother. They kind of just jump from one to the next within the same paragraph. They could also maybe expand on why the concept of a fascist leader is not universal, because I do see where they are going, but it feels a little like they don’t really finish their thought.

Originally posted by onecreamtwosugarslightice on December 04, 2024 19:57

The ideology behind fascism is a glorified escape from reality. Fascism is essentially a last resort for societies and people that are left with little-to-no hope for their future and need a false sense of security. When individuals or groups feel a profound lack of hope for their future, fascism offers a seemingly reassuring but ultimately false sense of security and order. It simplifies complex social, economic, and political issues into black-and-white terms, often scapegoating marginalized communities or external forces as the cause of societal woes. This approach provides an illusion of control and empowerment, appealing to those seeking solace in the face of uncertainty or decline. However, this reliance on false narratives and authoritarian structures not only distorts reality but also perpetuates cycles of oppression and division, failing to address the root causes of societal challenges.

I feel like a society must be incredibly desperate for change in order for fascism to rise within it. This desperation often stems from deep-seated crises, whether economic, political, or social, that leave people feeling powerless. In such moments, when traditional systems seem incapable of addressing the growing issues, people may become vulnerable to ideologies that promise swift, radical solutions. Fascism thrives in this environment by exploiting fear, uncertainty, and the longing for stability. It offers a vision of change that is often aggressive and authoritarian, appealing to those who feel that incremental reforms are insufficient or that their very way of life is under threat. The rise of fascism, then, is not merely a political shift but a reflection of a society grappling with its most profound anxieties and a longing for a future that feels secure and unified, even if it means sacrificing freedom and diversity in the process. It is so appealing because it promises change, whether good or bad. When things hit such a bad point in a society, any change could be considered a good change so long as it doesn’t emulate the previous hardships faced.

I believe that there definitely are societies that could be considered fascist, but I would argue against the notion that America is a fascist society. While aspects of these traits might manifest in certain political movements or policies within the U.S., labeling the entire society as fascist oversimplifies the complexities of its political and social structure. America is built on a foundation of democratic principles, including checks and balances, the separation of powers, and constitutional rights that protect individual freedoms. While these ideals are not always perfectly upheld, they remain a significant barrier against the wholesale adoption of fascist ideologies. This doesn’t dismiss the presence of movements within America that may carry fascist undertones, yet these are symptoms of larger societal challenges rather than evidence of an entirely fascist system. It is crucial to differentiate between concerning trends within a democracy and what defines a fascist regime.

I liked the first sentence because it really drew me in. I hadn’t actually perceived fascism this way, but now seeing it phrased like this, I do agree. Connecting it back to how Germans were so intrigued and enthusiastic with the rise of the Nazis, it was overall just an escape from the struggles that they were met with after the World War. Hence that “profound lack of hope for their future” that you mentioned. I also agree with how “fascism offers a seemingly reassuring but ultimately false sense of security and order” because it also connects to propaganda which I believe is one of the key characteristics that is present for a society to be considered fascist. It connects to propaganda because the literal definition of propaganda is biased or misleading information that is used to promote a specific political view. With this it explains how propaganda is used in fascist regimes as a way to mislead its viewers and give them a “false sense of security and order”. I find it compelling how you said that this ultimately “perpetuates cycles of oppression and division, failing to address the root causes of societal challenges” because as a result of scapegoating, it’s creating this common enemy and demonizing people which further pushes oppression through this united hate. America definitely does have some slight fascist undertones but I agree against America being a fascist society. You are a really good writer and have very insightful thoughts!

Originally posted by bookshelf on December 04, 2024 07:45

Fascism manifests in a society in times of political unrest, and the people within the society look for stability and comfort. This was seen in the Weimar Republic, in which hyperinflation, postwar sadness, and political chaos consumed Germany. These combined created the perfect political climate for the rise of Adolph Hitler in the 1930s and 1940s.

In a fascist society, there must be severe aspects of authoritarianism and nationalism. These include an emphasis on combat and excellence and a control of information. The emphases on external combat include things such as supremacy of the military, and a desire for territorial expansion. However, there also are aspects of internal combat within a nation, such as an obsession with ‘enemies within’, identification of scapegoats for current problems, terror and lack of human rights. Jason Stanley, in his book “How Fascism Works” outlines another serious aspect of fascist societies, which is anti-intellectualism. He states that “in a fascist ideology, there is only one legitimate viewpoint, that of the dominant nation”. The control of information is indescribably dangerous within a nation, as it can contribute to phenomenons like groupthink, which can bring a nation further from the point of return. The control of information allowed for intense nationalism, and an alienation of scapegoats in the context of Nazi Germany. The scapegoats in question were mainly the Jewish population, however hate was also passed onto other minority groups such as Romani people, homosexuals, and those with disabilities. An ancient stereotype that Jewish people control the world led to widespread anti-antisemitism during the decline of the Weimar Republic, leading to legislation that slowly stripped them of their human rights.

One of the characteristics of fascist ideology that people find appealing is intense nationalism. This nationalism leads to a feeling of superiority among other countries, nationalities, and origins. Additionally, the line between harmful nationalism and healthy patriotism varies from person to person, and it is pushed further and further in a fascist society, until it does not exist. Following 9/11 especially, intense patriotism has been more and more common in the United States. This descent into xenophobia, Islamophobia, and racism (especially following the election of Donald Trump in 2016) has led many to believe that America is heading towards becoming a fascist state. Many feel “that the rise of far-right groups like the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers, and especially their participation in the “insurrection” of January 6, 2021, suggest that there’s an unprecedented threat to U.S. democracy that only the word “fascism” can describe.” (The New Republic). For this reason, many believe that Donald Trump and his far-right followers have sent the United States into a descent towards fascism. Donald Trump has exhibited traits of a fascist leader, especially in the form of anti-intellectualism. He has expressed desires to get rid of the department of education, and supply mainly christian media such as bibles and sets of the ten commandments to schools. This is an especially growing problem in the American South, especially in Florida where things like the “Don't Say Gay Bill” help force a right-wing political agenda.

Post your response here.

I thought it was interesting how you categorized traits of fascism into ‘internal combat’ and ‘external combat.’ I’ve never looked at it that way. It definitely speaks to how fascism as an ideology just doesn’t work, and the only way it is able to maintain itself for any amount of time is through violence within and outside of the state.

I liked the point you made about the rise of Christianity as a pass for fascism, and loved your example of the ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill. However, I don’t really think that this is a new thing. For a long time, Christianity has been shaping our government and our legislation. Just look at a dollar bill. Although we pride ourselves on having ‘separation of church and state’ we’ve never really had that. I do agree that we’ve seen an uptick of this recently, I think the general culture is just swinging right-wing now.

I actually used a quote from the anti-intellectual reading in my post as well, I think that that characteristic of fascism is probably the most fascinating to look at historically and in the present. I came up with different examples of it, but your examples of putting bibles or christian messaging in public schools is really insightful as well. It sort of brings into question what the point of schooling even is in the first place, if Christian beliefs are held with such importance in the classroom, despite being arbitrary.